Building a mini bike frame from scratch is a rewarding project for any DIY enthusiast or experienced builder. One of the first and most crucial questions when starting your build is: what size tubing should you use for the frame? Getting the right tubing ensures your mini bike is not only durable and safe but also has the right look and feel. Let’s dive into the recommendations from experienced builders to guide you in choosing the perfect piping for your mini bike project.
Understanding Tubing Size for Mini Bike Frames
The discussion around mini bike frame tubing size is quite common in builder communities, and for good reason. The size of the tubing directly impacts the strength, weight, and overall aesthetics of your mini bike. Based on community discussions, here are some popular options and considerations:
7/8″ OD Tubing: The Traditional Choice
Many experienced mini bike builders recommend 7/8 inch OD (Outer Diameter) tubing as a standard and excellent choice for mini bike frames. This size is often considered the classic dimension and has been successfully used in countless builds. One builder, OND, mentioned that “Most mini bikes are made with 7/8″ od thin wall tubing,” highlighting its prevalence in mini bike construction.
Image: Example of a custom mini bike frame build showcasing the tubing structure and alignment.
Manchester1 further specified 7/8 DOM (Drawn Over Mandrel) tubing with a wall thickness of 0.083 inches as a solid option. This combination of size and material provides a good balance of strength and weight, making it ideal for many mini bike applications. Minibikin’ also confirmed that “7/8″ .083″ is correct. DOM is definitely stronger than EWS,” reinforcing the preference for DOM tubing for its superior strength compared to Electric Welded Steel (EWS).
1″ OD Tubing: For a Beefier Feel
While 7/8″ is a popular choice, some builders prefer to go slightly larger with 1″ OD tubing. OND mentioned using 1″ OD tubing because their “tubing bender has 1″ dyes,” suggesting practical reasons for choosing this size. TANKSAREUS echoed this preference, stating, “I use 25mm or one inch with a 1,6mm wall -. 065 I just feel one inch gives the frame a meater feel.” The 1″ tubing provides a slightly more robust and substantial look and feel to the frame, which can be desirable for some builders.
However, TANKSAREUS also cautioned against going too small, advising against 19mm tubing, as it “looks wiry” and visually “wrong” even if it technically works. This highlights that tubing size isn’t just about strength but also about achieving the desired aesthetic.
Material and Wall Thickness: Key Factors for Durability
Beyond the outer diameter, the material and wall thickness are critical for the frame’s strength and longevity. DOM tubing is repeatedly recommended for its superior strength and tighter tolerances compared to standard steel tubing. A wall thickness of 0.083″ or approximately 1.6mm (0.065″) is generally considered appropriate for mini bike frames, providing a good balance between strength and weight.
Finding Your Tubing: Sourcing and Availability
Sourcing the right tubing can sometimes be a challenge. Chipper noted, “I wish you luck finding 7/8 tubing, nearly impossible to find here!” This highlights that availability can vary by location. However, mrpat provided a helpful link to Speedy Metals, an online supplier where 7/8″ OD x 0.083″ wall DOM steel tubing can be ordered. Fistfullabar confirmed the reliability of Speedy Metals, saying, “got mine from them very good place to get from nice website they got.” This online resource can be invaluable if local suppliers are limited.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Tubing for Your Mini Bike Frame
For building a mini bike frame, 7/8″ OD DOM tubing with a 0.083″ wall thickness is widely regarded as an excellent and classic choice. It provides a balance of strength, weight, and a traditional mini bike aesthetic. While 1″ tubing offers a slightly sturdier feel, 7/8″ remains a highly recommended and readily available option. When sourcing your materials, consider online suppliers like Speedy Metals if local options are scarce. Remember to prioritize DOM tubing for its strength and ensure you choose an appropriate wall thickness for a safe and durable mini bike frame. Happy building!
